Thick, dark brown or black discharge from the ears[3] X Research source Rubbing or scratching the ears Red, irritated skin Scaly skin Head shaking Rancid smelling ears History of allergic skin disease
If your dog’s condition is not severe, your vet may simply suggest that you clean your dog’s ears daily. If the condition is severe, meaning the infection likely won’t clear up on its own, your vet will likely prescribe you medication.
If your vet gave you drops, you will hold the ear open by holding the tip of the ear with one hand. Then use your other hand to drop the designated amount of drops into the ear canal. If your vet gives you an ointment, put the amount recommended in the instructions on your finger. Hold the ear open by the tip with your other hand and then put the ointment in the ear canal with your finger. Wash your hands right after application. Medications you may be prescribed for your dog include clotrimazole, nystatin or thiabendazole, among others. [6] X Research source
These medications are usually only given if the infection is advanced or won’t go away after weeks of another type of treatment. Your vet may prescribe other medications to fight against underlying conditions that weaken the immune system, such as allergies. This way, your dog will be less likely to develop yeast infections.
Ask your veterinarian about what products will work best for your dog. They may have a prescription product that will be very effective at cleaning the ears.
It can be difficult for a dog to put up with having its ears cleaned. If your dog doesn’t like the procedure, you may need someone else to help you hold your dog while you do it.
Follow the directions on the packaging of the cleaning solution, including how many drops to put in each ear. In many cases, you will put in enough drops to fill the ear canal.
Leave the dog’s head tilted for a few seconds to give time to let the moisture drain. Leaving moisture in your dog’s ear can exacerbate the infection, even if the moisture is an ear-cleaning solution.
If you see small amounts of redness, peeling, or excessive dirt or debris, your dog should have its ears cleaned.
Use a clean towel when you dry your dog’s ears. Using a dirty towel can introduce fungus or bacteria into the ear canal, instead of keeping it clean.
Removing the fur in the ears will allow your dog to keep their ears cleaner and will allow you to inspect the state of their inner ear more easily. Be wary of plucking hair from your dog’s ears since it could cause inflammation, which can weaken your dog’s skin and make it vulnerable to a secondary infection. Talk with your vet to determine the best course of action.
This does not mean that a dog without floppy ears can’t get a yeast infection. It is just less likely.
